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If the key is stolen, this is likely covered under your comprehensive insurance

It’s a good idea ask your insurance company about key coverage before it happens

Losing your keys can be a very expensive mistake. Whether you misplaced them or someone has run off with keys on purpose, it can be very frustrating to have a vehicle that you do not have the tools to operate.

The solution would be to order a new set of keys, but once you call a locksmith or dealership, you will learn that the cost for an ignition key or door key is a lot higher than you might have guessed.

It might sound like an exaggeration, but some of today’s vehicle models come with keys that can cost you upwards of $500 just to replace.

Luckily, there are ways to avoid paying for the cost out of your own pocket. If you carry the right insurance, there is a possibility that lost or stolen keys will be covered under the benefit.

Add in the fact that you must pay the cost charged by the dealer for programming, and you are already in the hole over $300.

If you must have your car towed to the dealer just for programming, this is an additional cost adding up to over $500.

Will your insurance pay for these costs?

Whether your lost keys will be covered on your personal auto insurance policy depends on a list of factors. Many times, the policies on key claims will vary from company to company.

Companies that are dedicated to customer satisfaction may have more favorable terms and conditions on things like key replacement, but that does not mean that it will definitely be covered.

Some policies automatically provide cover for your keys, but others require that you add a special key replacement rider.

You should review your policy to see how the claims department will handle this claim and if optional riders are required before you ever need to file a claim.

How are claims for stolen keys handled?

If you know that you did not just misplace your keys, you can be confident to say that the keys were stolen. Carriers will handle claims for stolen key much differently than those that are simply misplaced.

A theft of keys presents unique challenges. You not only need to pay for the replacement key, you also need to worry about the security of your car when you are not watching.

This is why insurers might pay for the following after a stolen key incident:

Cost to replace the ignition key

Cost to replace the door keys

Cost to re-key the vehicle to prevent theft

Is there a deductible for a key claim?

If your keys are lost, it is likely that the claim will be classified as a comprehensive loss. A majority of claims are required to exceed the deductible that you carry.

In some cases, the carrier will waive the deductible in special circumstances or for key or glass claims.

Check to see what your deductible is and if it is even worth filing a claim if it is high.

Another scenario where your insurer may pay for keys is when the car is stolen and recovered. Obviously, the fact that the car was stolen creates the need to file a claim. When it is recovered, you cannot expect the keys to be in the engine.

The insurer will need to help you recover by paying for the keys and repairing any damage that was done.

Other Ways to Pay for Key Replacements

If you cannot file a claim, you should look into other coverage that you carry. Many times, your warranty provider will cover keys. If you have breakdown cover or roadside assistance, the plan may provide cover for a lockout and for a replacement.

This is something to consider before you pay for the new key fob. If you have already paid, some of these will offer reimbursements when you submit your bill.

If you are not happy with your current carrier, it is time to shop the market. Ask the hard-hitting questions and find a company with fair terms.

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